Threats directed at Madlanga Commission co-commissioner Advocate Sandile Khumalo and Advocate Myron Dewrance SC have triggered concern within South Africa’s legal community.
The Legal Practice Council and Advocates for Transformation have condemned the intimidation, with some of the threats reportedly extending to family members.
Advocacy groups are now calling for urgent police action as concerns grow over the safety of legal practitioners performing professional duties.
Threats reportedly escalated
Advocates for Transformation said it had initially chosen not to publicise the threats, but later spoke out after the situation escalated.
The organisation said some communications had included explicit threats of sexual violence against women who were not involved in the underlying dispute.
AFT said the threatening messages repeatedly blamed Khumalo and also referred to Dewrance, members of his family and the organisation itself.
The group said it had not yet established who was responsible for the threats.
Disciplinary matter linked to dispute
According to Sowetan, the threats are believed to be connected to disciplinary proceedings involving a member of the Johannesburg Society of Advocates accused of serious professional misconduct.
At the time, Khumalo chaired the JSA’s professional committee and also served on its Bar Council after being nominated by AFT.
AFT said threats against legal practitioners because of their professional responsibilities could undermine their independence and the integrity of disciplinary processes.
Calls for police investigation
Legal Practice Council spokesperson Kabelo Letebele said intimidation targeting legal professionals threatens both the profession and the rule of law.
Public Interest SA chairperson Tebogo Khaas also called on police to urgently investigate the threats.
The Madlanga Commission declined to discuss specific security arrangements relating to its personnel.
AFT said it would pursue lawful measures to protect those affected and identify the people responsible.
The organisation also warned that threats of violence, particularly those targeting families and women, should not be allowed to become a tool of intimidation.
It said the latest incidents reinforce the need for stronger protection for people working within the justice system.